The year has been an extraordinary one for Pakistanis, especially women who have made history in a number of fields. From scaling dangerous mountain peaks to representing Pakistan in media, and advocating for women and minorities at home, this year has been one for the history books. Renowned mountaineer Naila Kiani became the first Pakistani woman climber to conquer 10 peaks above 8,000 meters and has also climbed seven peaks above 8,000m in the span of six months. She also achieved another first as the first Pakistani woman to climb the world’s fourth-highest peak, Lhotse in Nepal. Other mountaineers such as Sajid Ali Sadpara and Shehroze Kashif made their mark with incredible achievements throughout 2023. In other sports, Pakistan’s javelin-throwing athlete Arshad Nadeem secured the country’s first-ever medal at the World Athletics Championships by securing second place in the final. In entertainment, Arooj Aftab performed at the Grammy Awards and streetwear label Rastah became the first Pakistani brand to showcase at the London Fashion Week. The first-ever art exhibition of Pakistani artists was organized in Hungary’s Budapest and Erica Robin was crowned the first Miss Universe Pakistan. The year was also significant for women and minorities in Pakistan who achieved several milestones. Women made historic strides in the judicial and political arenas, with appointments and elections of many firsts. The transgender community was also formally included in the Benazir Income Support Programme for the first time. In international representation, Namira Salim made history by becoming the first Pakistani to travel to space.